Attitudes towards homosexuality have varied considerably for years. Although there has been an increase in approval of homosexuality around the world, there are still individuals with homophobic attitudes. Unfortunately, homophobia is common and often plays a significant role in the lives of many gay, lesbian and bisexual men. The most extreme form of homophobia manifests itself in hate crimes. Hate crimes include assaults, robberies, and murders committed because the victim is of a certain race, religion, or ethnic group or has a certain sexual orientation (Crooks & Baur, 2013). Although homophobia and hate crimes cannot be justified, there are various motivations for both. First, they reflect, at the most fundamental level, humankind's limited capacity to accept and value differences between people (Crooks & Baur, 2013). Second, homophobia and hate crimes are usually linked to traditional gender role identification. Those people who hold traditional gender role stereotypes have more negative feelings toward homosexuality than others (Crooks & Baur, 2013). Another element involved in homophobia and hate crimes may be the attempt to deny or suppress homosexual feelings in oneself (Crooks & Baur, 2013). In a current study conducted by Blashill and Powlishta they sought to examine the factors involved in negative reactions to gay males. Results indicated significant main effects for gender role and sexual orientation, indicating that males who display femininity, regardless of sexual orientation, are generally viewed negatively ( Blashill & Powlishta, 2009 ). Furthermore, gay targets are negatively evaluated even in the absence of information on gender role characteristics (Blashill & Powlishta, 2009). In another study conducted by… middle of paper… having the support of your parents, family and friends and knowing that they accept you, no matter what, is a great feeling. Additionally, being accepted into the gay community can have a positive impact on those people of the same sexual orientation. Such information is helpful in understanding human sexuality because we can be so ignorant about things we know nothing about. Individuals with homophobic attitudes may not understand the seriousness of their comments or behavior towards homosexuals and so by informing them we can help them change their opinions. They may not completely agree, but at least they will be aware of how they treat others. In conclusion, although views on homosexuality have improved significantly, being homosexual, lesbian or bisexual is still not easy. Until we are able to leave our ignorance behind, homophobia will continue to impact the gay community.